The Blue Picardy Spaniel is a unique breed of medium to medium-large pointing Spaniels from northern France. It is not very common. What sets this Spaniel apart is its distinct blue and grey coat, which is covered in ticking and may or may not have dark blue or black spots. The original Picardy Spaniel, on the other hand, comes in chocolate brown, chestnut brown, and white colors.
Recently, the Federation Cynologique Internationale and the Canadian Kennel Club have recognized both the Picardy and Blue Picardy Spaniels. However, the American Kennel Club does not recognize these breeds. The Blue Picardy Spaniel is not only an excellent hunting partner, but also a playful and affectionate companion at home. With its tracking, pointing, and retrieving skills, it proves to be a versatile hunting companion.
Below, we look at Blue Picardy Spaniel dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Blue Picardy Spaniel, characteristics, and must-know facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and much more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Blue Picardy Spaniels!
| Dog Breed | Blue Picardy Spaniel |
| Size | Large |
| Weight | 55-70 lbs (average) |
| Height | 21-23″ (average) |
| Location | France |
| Ancestry | Picardy Spaniel, English and Gordon Setter |
| Date of Origin | 1938 |
| Group | Gun Dog, Pointing and Retrieving |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 years |
| Price | $600 – $800 |
| Family | Canidae |
| Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
The Blue Picardy Spaniel is a rare breed of dog that originated in France. It has a unique hunting style and a coat that is grey-brown or tan in color. The breed was officially recognized in France in 1938, but its history can be traced back to the early 1900s when French hunting Spaniels were divided into regional groups.
The Picardy Spaniels developed near the river Somme in the Picardy region of Northern France. They were a result of breeding between French hunting Spaniels and English Setters that were brought to the area due to quarantine restrictions. Later, these Picardy Spaniels were crossed with Gordon Setters and English Setters with a blue ticking marking style, resulting in the Blue Picardy Spaniel with its distinctive blue coloration.
During World War II, the breed suffered a decline in population, like many other dog breeds in Europe. It wasn’t until the 1990s that the Blue Picardy Spaniel started to recover and gain recognition in other countries. In 1995, it was officially recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club, and it can also be registered with the American Rare Breed Association.
Overall, the Blue Picardy Spaniel is a relatively new and still rare breed, but its unique characteristics and history make it an interesting and special dog.
🐕 Blue Picardy Spaniel Appearance
While the FCI standards do not define a weight range, the Blue Picardy Spaniel is normally between 45 and 60 pounds in weight and is a medium to medium-large sized dog that stands just at or just under two feet tall. This breed has powerful, long legs and well-proportioned, round, never flat feet. Their nearly round eyes are typically dark in color and very expressive, and their ears are set fairly high up on the head and hang down to the sides, with leathers that are long enough to reach the tip of the dog’s nose when pulled forward. They also have a fairly wide head with a muzzle that is both long and broad and a fairly pendulous lip. The ticking blue and grey colouring of this breed, which is occasionally accompanied by large black or dark blue patches, can be used to identify it from the original Picardy Spaniel.
| 👀 Eye Color | Brown |
| 🐽 Nose Color | Black |
| 🐕 Coat Color | Black, Blue, Pied |
⚡ Fun Fact: Blue Picardy Spaniel dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn’t tolerate being left alone.
🐶 Traits & Temperament of Blue Picardy Spaniel
The Blue Picardy Spaniel is a versatile hunting dog with the ability to track, point out, and retrieve game, but they are also frequently loving and devoted dogs with a normally calm and well-mannered disposition. Although their eager personalities and somewhat high hunting drives may make tiny creatures that scamper or flutter tempting targets, these dogs normally get along with most humans and other animals while also developing close relationships with their families. Although it has been said that the Blue Picardy Spaniel is a little more tolerant with kids than the normal Picardy Spaniel, all interactions between dogs and young kids or toddlers should be closely watched for the safety of both the animal and the kid. Although gentle, positive training techniques should be used to prevent fearfulness and anxiety from developing and socializing should start at a young age, they are sensitive and responsive animals with a great desire to please.
🤝 Are Blue Picardy Spaniels Friendly or Aggressive?
Blue Picardy Spaniel dogs tend to get along well with other pets and are generally friendly towards them. However, they may not be the most welcoming towards strangers and may require some time to warm up to new people. Despite this, they are known to be kid-friendly and can be a good choice for families with children. While they are average in their friendliness towards cats and other dogs, Blue Picardy Spaniels are often recommended for elderly individuals, possibly due to their calm and gentle nature.
This breed is known for being:
- Active
- Playful
- Protective
- Gentle
- Adaptable
- Calm
🐩 Blue Picardy Spaniel Care & Maintenance
To keep this dog looking and smelling its best, it requires low to moderate maintenance. While many dogs may get by with three or four washes a year, some might need to be bathed every month, mostly dependent on how much time is spent outside. Although additional brushing sessions might need to be added in the spring and autumn when their rate of shedding increases, brushing this dog once or twice a week is often sufficient to manage their mild shedding. It is crucial to pay attention to the feet since hair may be seen poking out from in between each of their firmly clenched toes. In certain situations, the hair between their toes may tangle, and if this is not attended to, ultimately the knots may also affect the skin there.
Blue Picardy Spaniel dogs have a moderate shedding tendency, which is a normal part of their hair growth cycle. Regular brushing helps to minimize the amount of hair they shed. The shedding level of these dogs can vary depending on their overall health and the specific breed they belong to. As for bath time, it is recommended to give them a bath every 6-8 weeks to keep their coat clean and healthy.
🍖 Food: We recommend 2.5 cups daily, costing you about $1.20 – $1.40 daily, or roughly $34.00 – $45.00 a month.
🐾 Exercise: Blue Picardy Spaniel dogs need a lot of exercises. Long walks should be on a daily schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly 14 miles per week, which equates to about 90 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.
Did you know: Blue Picardy Spaniel dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn’t the perfect choice for you.
❤️🩹 Blue Picardy Spaniel Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for Blue Picardy Spaniel Dog Breed can be:
- Canine Hip Dysplasia (Chd)
While minor concerns include:
- Ear Infections
- Ectropion
🤧 Important: Is Blue Picardy Spaniel hypoallergenic? No.
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Blue Picardy Spaniel.
⚡ Blue Picardy Spaniel Dog Breed Facts
What makes the Blue Picardy Spaniel a great choice for families with young children?
The Blue Picardy Spaniel is a great choice for families with young children because they are known to be patient and gentle with kids. However, it is important to supervise interactions between the dog and children to ensure safety for both.
Is the Blue Picardy Spaniel breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
While the Blue Picardy Spaniel can adapt to apartment living with regular exercise, they are more suitable for homes with a yard where they can have space to run and play.
How much exercise does a Blue Picardy Spaniel require compared to other breeds?
The Blue Picardy Spaniel requires moderate exercise compared to some high-energy breeds. Daily walks and playtime are essential to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.
Is the Blue Picardy Spaniel breed known for being good with other pets?
Yes, the Blue Picardy Spaniel breed is generally good with other pets. However, their prey drive may make smaller animals tempting targets, so it is important to introduce them slowly and supervise interactions.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Blue Picardy Spaniel?
Other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Blue Picardy Spaniel include the Brittany Spaniel and the English Setter.
What are the common health issues that Blue Picardy Spaniels are prone to?
Common health issues that Blue Picardy Spaniels are prone to include hip dysplasia, ear infections, and allergies. Regular veterinary check-ups and proper grooming can help prevent and manage these issues.
Are Blue Picardy Spaniels known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Blue Picardy Spaniels are known to be easy to train due to their desire to please and their intelligence. Positive reinforcement methods work well with this breed.
Are Blue Picardy Spaniels more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Blue Picardy Spaniels can be prone to separation anxiety if not properly socialized and trained. Providing them with plenty of mental and physical stimulation, as well as gradually increasing alone time, can help prevent separation anxiety.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the Blue Picardy Spaniel that are suitable for people with allergies?
Some dog breeds similar to the Blue Picardy Spaniel that are suitable for people with allergies include the Poodle, Bichon Frise, and Portuguese Water Dog.
What sizes of dogs similar to the Blue Picardy Spaniel are best for individuals or families with limited space?
Smaller-sized dogs similar to the Blue Picardy Spaniel, such as the Cocker Spaniel or the English Springer Spaniel, can be a good choice for individuals or families with limited space.
Is the Blue Picardy Spaniel breed known to be good with children with special needs?
The Blue Picardy Spaniel breed is generally good with children, including those with special needs. However, as with any dog, careful supervision and training are important to ensure a safe and positive interaction.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Blue Picardy Spaniel?
The grooming and shedding needs of the Blue Picardy Spaniel are moderate. Regular brushing once or twice a week is usually sufficient, with increased sessions during shedding seasons. They have hair that protrudes between their toes, which may require extra attention to prevent tangling and discomfort.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Blue Picardy Spaniel dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.
